How to Camp in the Rain

September 25, 2017Comments are off

Your days off may not always coincide with the best camping weather. Therefore, there is a good chance that you are going to have to figure out a way to stay sheltered from wind, rain, and moisture. Now, you should be aware that is virtually impossible to not get wet in such climates. However, with a little bit of planning and the right gear, you won’t be soaked and at the very least, you will be warm and comfortable. Here are some tips that you can turn to in this situation:

Get the Right Tent

The most important piece of equipment that will help keep you dry is your shelter so you should put a lot of thought into which one is best. Most modern structures have waterproof coatings which help the water to glide right off instead of collecting. Still, you should always check the label to make sure that this sealant has been applied. In terms of comfort, though, canvas tents offer you the best hope. First, they are excellent at keeping the rain away. More importantly, however, they are incredibly breathable which helps to prevent condensation from forming inside the tent. Furthermore, they also provide adequate protection from the sound of falling rain and harsh winds, letting you sleep better at night. As you can see, these types of shelters are superior options in wet conditions.

Pack Rain Gear

Since you will not be spending the entire trip huddled in your tent, you will need to think of the appropriate clothing. If you want to keep things as lightweight as possible, opt for a raincoat and a pair of rain boots. If you are more concerned with staying dry, you can get rain jackets and pants instead. You may want to stay away from cotton clothing as they cause you to feel cold soon after they get wet. Hats, particularly waterproof ones, can help to keep the rain off your face while hiking.

Carry a Tarp with You

If you are anticipating rain, one of the smartest things that you can do is to carry a large tarp with you. Since it is so versatile, it can serve numerous purposes. If the rain is getting steadily heavier, you can drape it over your shelter to improve its waterproof features. Mostly, though, tarps are used to create separate dry spaces on the campsite. This is particularly important for the cooking area or where you want to store some gear.

Learn Alternative Ways to Start a Fire

One of the most difficult things to do when it is raining is to start a fire. This is because you need dry kindling and tinder which can be nearly impossible to find after a good shower. This is why it can help to have some alternatives. For instance, where you are aware that you could start a fire with strips of duct tape? Or, in a pinch, slather petroleum jelly on cotton balls. Both of these options should help you to get a fire going for as long as you need. Also, carrying a box or two of waterproof matches may also prove to be wise.

These are some of the ways that you camp in the rain and still enjoy yourself. Just remember to always heed the weather and beware of a worsening situation. It is important to stay safe.